2008 International Sign Contest

BEST OF SHOW
FIRST PLACE

This entry-monument sign’s classic lettering and straightforward design easily relate what this restaurant serves. Coastal Enterprise’s Precision Board HDU was CNC-carved, using AXYZ Automation’s 4008 4 x 8-ft. router, to mimic wood grain. The reverse-lit, halo channel letters incorporate U.S. LED LEDs, powered by U.S. LED transformers. The handcarved HDU flame was gilded with 23k goldleaf to impart the flame-like brilliance. Clear, 0.5-in.-thick acrylic, with flamed edges and a painted, white second side, were laminated to the front of aluminum-can letters to spell “Steak House.” The pillars and the wall were created from faux stone applied to cinder block. Atop the pillars, custom-made metal hoods tie into the building features and contribute to the “fireplace” theme.

SECOND PLACE

Burlington, ON’s new branding program, which was designed by Patrick Berry, the city’s corporate graphic designer, is reflected in this monument. The acrylic, push-through letters and graphic elements were routed from a 0.5-in.-thick, acrylic sheet and decorated with 3M white and colored, translucent vinyls. “Downtown Burlington” is illuminated by 108-in., high-output, daylight, fluorescent lamps and an Allanson ballast. Allanson 6-in., coral white Chroma LED modules and transformers help accent the graphic elements. The aluminum structure was acid-washed, primed and painted with BASF UNO HD urethane paint. Avery paint mask and a two-step paint process created the “scenery” decoration.

THIRD PLACE

The 21-ft. 6-in.-tall, tri-partite, double-faced monument features a 48 x 160-matrix, 11mm electronic message board. Also, color-changing Color Kinetics’ LED Colorburst fixtures produce a slow fade of solid, vibrant colors in the area behind the curvy cross. “Crosspoint Community Church” comprises .0625-in.-thick, white, acrylic, push-through letters; 0.5-in.-thick, flat, cut-out, white acrylic letters announce the website and street number. The cross is illuminated with neon and powered with a 30mA transformer. Stone and granite tile form the 8 x 21-ft. base.

HONORABLE MENTION

Murals/Supergraphics